THE sophistication and safety of having all-wheel-drive in a conventional car has largely been the preserve of expensive executive models, but its no longer true or out of the reach of most drivers.

Subaru showed that you could make an affordable car with AWD but it was left scrabbling for sales in the wake of the all-dominating Audi brand, which comprehensively changed expectations and introduced quattro versions in every derivative.

Now the comparatively minnow model maker Suzuki has dangled a tempting morsel into the market in the shape of the new Kizashi saloon. And I am hooked for one.

Suzuki has a long association with four-wheel-drive, mostly in SUVs, but it has also dabbled with pick-ups and small all-wheel-drive cars. Now it has stepped up its game with the medium sized Kizashi.

This is aimed squarely at the premium brands with its styling both inside and out looking very contemporary and cool while retaining a practical purpose and ability.

It borrows the familiar 2.4-litre petrol engine from the Vitara but uprated and improved for its role in the saloon and Suzuki has decided to sell it in the UK only with a CVT box attached.

The smoothness and flowing power of the engine blends well with the seamless transmission and its straightforward, but not as economical as some might wish.

The mechanical refinement continues with low noise levels and the ability to manually engage the intelligent all-wheel-drive if you don't want the system to do it all for you.

Normal driving pushes power to the front wheels, but the system can split it 50:50 in poor grip conditions and its all done without any noise or jerkiness, imperceptibly in fact.

The refinement of the powertrain is matched by the fluidity of the steering and the delightfully progressive braking system with its lightness and power ensuring safety is paramount.

Ride quality is noisy over some surfaces but always smooth and when pressing on the grip is excellent and the handling safe and surefooted.

Secondary controls are generally well laid out and convenient, the instruments reasonably sized and easy to read, the heating and ventilation includes climate control and four powered windows as well as an electric sunroof, so you get a lot for your money.

When you also consider the price of about £22,000 includes leather seats, cruise control and parking sensors you appreciate what a bargain it really is.

You don't loose out in room either. The boot is a reasonable 461 litres although the opening is not big, but the doors give good access and it accommodates four in comfort and a fifth at a squeeze. Head and legroom is good and the front seats have ample adjustment range.

Visibility is good all round, helped by the parking sensors, big wipers and bright long-range headlights.

The Suzuki Kizashi is a very well designed and built model which gives everything you could want in an all-weathers' executive saloon, but at about half the price you might expect to pay.

It is almost too good to be true and the only compromises are its unremarkable fuel consumption and modest boot space.